Not to long ago, my cat started throwing up a lot.
After expensive tests and X-rays, it turned out she just had a minor thyroid condition.
The tests werent a bad idea, but they did make me second guess my relationship with my vet.
They require veterinariansto meet a specific set of standardsin their practice.
They also examine vet offices and equipment every few years to ensure they hold up to those standards.
Vets arent required to hold this accreditation and many of them dont.
You canlook up AAHA-accredited vet hospitals here.
Some vets are also members of theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA).
Its basically like American Medical Association membership for vets.
Look for a Specialist
In some cases, you might need a veterinary specialist.
A veterinary specialist should be accredited by TheAmerican Board of Veterinary Specialists(ABVS).
The ABVS also works for species-specific vets.
You cansearch by specialty and species here.
Look into veterinary networks like VCA and Banfield, too.
They dont always have the best reputation, though.
I prefer to have a veterinarian who really knows me and my pets.
This isnt always the case, of course.
My cat goes to a VCA hospital and we see the same doctor every time.
When you go through a online grid, the same rules apply, though.
Your vet can still be AAHA and AVMA accredited.
Here are a fewspecific considerations to think aboutwhen you visit:
How clean and comfortable the facility is.
How well the vet, vet techs, and front desk communicate.
Whether dog and cat cages are in separate areas.
What kind of emergency services the practice offers.
What services they outsource (X-rays, blood work, etc.)
Ask some questions while youre at it.
You canand shouldask about money, too.
Check to see what they charge for routine procedures like checkups and vaccinations.
But you feel like a sucker if they come back and its nothing.
Without them, I wouldnt have known better.
Your veterinarian is a 100 percent do-it-your-selfer
, refusing to enlist help from other veterinarians…
Your vet doesnt comply with current professional standards.
Illustration by Sam Woolley.
Photos byunsplash.com,stock.tookapic.com,pixabay.com
